Expert: Nanetta Bananto - 10/7/2002

Question
Can you used baked polymer clay as a candle mold?  If so what is the best wax to use and for large molds should it be done in halfs?


Answer
Dear Joanne -  Polymer clay molecules change during the baking process and it can be baked several times, but I would not recommend using it over and over with hot materials.  

What you can use is latex.  There is a liquid latex that you can paint on with a brush in layers and then peel off.  The process can take a day and then another to really set, but you end up with a mold that is durable and flexible.  For candles, I would suggest a hole at the top for a wick, which you can create after it is cured.  Also, get a bucket or other container that you can put a layer of sand in, then your mold, then sand around the mold to hold it into place so it does not distort while you pour.  Now, two part molds are not my area. You probobly will want to use a spray mold realease as well, before you pour in the wax.

You could use polymer clay for the original, or use an unused candle and add UNBAKED polymer clay decorations.  The polymer clay should stick to the wax enough to hold an impression.  When the latex mold has cured, the polymer clay should come right out. Good luck!  Let me know if you have further questions.  Nanetta Try these links below.

http://www.sculpey.com/
http://www.hollyhobby.com/store.asp?catid=28

http://www.dickblick.com/zz716/02/products.asp?param=0&ig_id=2051